Hvar is sometimes called the lavender island. And if you decide to take a break from the beach and walk up the hills, you'll see why. During June and July, the air gets full of fragrance and the hills are covered in purple color due to the lavender bloom season.
Hvar was once the center of lavender production in Croatia. Due to sunny and dry climate, the island was a perfect place for growing the plant that was widely used in medicine, cosmetics production and even culinary. Due to emigration of people to cities, lavender production on Hvar has declined, but there are still plenty of places to see those purple fields. For example, take a hike from the town of Hvar to the village of Grablje or further to Brusje. Both villages offer special lavender tours during the summer. Blooming lavender can be also spotted near Zastrazisce, Gdinj, and Bogomolje. After the lavender harvest in July, you can buy plenty of souvenirs, like pillows, perfumes, essences to keep that fragrance with you for a long time.
Every summer Velo Grablje also hosts The Hvar Lavender Festival that is usually held in late June to mark the start of the harvest time. The festival features many exhibitions, presentations, workshops, and concerts. This beautiful village that dates back to the 14th century, has only a dozen residents at present. Try some lavender honey produced here as well as excellent local wine and olive oil. The taste of these authentic products can't be compared to anything you can find in a big store.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Hvar Island for lavender bloom?
Lavender fields on Hvar Island reach full bloom from mid-June to mid-July, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. Tourists can bask in the sun and enjoy stunning purple fields during this time of dry and sunny weather. Velo Grablje hosts the annual Lavender Festival during this period, marking the beginning of the harvest season. Show more
Where can we find the best lavender fields on Hvar Island?
Hvar Island's purple lavender fields are a sight to behold, despite production decline over the years. One can spot blooming lavender fields near Zastrazisce, Gdinj, or Bogomolje throughout June and July. Travelers can hike from the town of Hvar to the village of Grablje for a chance to enjoy the lavender fields and celebrate the harvest at The Hvar Lavender Festival. Show more
How has lavender production on Hvar Island changed over time?
The Croatian Island of Hvar was once the leading producer of lavender. The emergence of urban areas led to a decline in production. However, it is still an essential part of the Island's economy and continues to be used in a variety of ways including cosmetics, medicine and culinary. Lavender fields on Hvar Island remain a tourist attraction and a source of pride for the locals. Show more
What can we expect from the Hvar Lavender Festival and when does it take place?
Velo Grablje hosts the Hvar Lavender Festival every summer to celebrate the blooming season and start of the harvest. During this period, visitors can participate in presentations, workshops, and concerts while enjoying various traditional lavender products. The festival takes place in late June and features products like lavender honey, local wine, and olive oil that tourists can try. Show more
What other authentic products can we try on Hvar Island besides lavender honey?
Hvar Island not only produces lavender honey, but also high-quality olive oil and local wines. There is a range of products from traditional aromatic herbs, spices and fruits to souvenirs like pillows and perfumes that visitors can enjoy. Local artisans and chefs combine local foods and aromas to produce unique souvenir products such as handmade lavender soap, sachets and bags of dried herbs, wine infused with herbs and more. Show more
